2009 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1400 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
Model | SL | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2009 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5461 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 382 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 278 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1430 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |